Reviews of the Best Car Amplifiers of 2019

Over the years, cars have improved in terms of their design and comfort. They are also faster, safer, and therefore ideal for commuting for short or long distances. However, their music systems have remained largely the same. Their sound quality, for instance, is plain and boring because of their low highs and low bass. Fortunately, with some of the best car amplifiers now available online, you can solve such issues without breaking the bank. Their plug-and-use interfaces are easy to set up and use. They also work in most brands of cars without upgrading the stock car speakers they came with from the factory. Here are the bestsellers of 2019:

10. Pioneer GMA3602 2-Channel Bridgeable Amplifier

Do you enjoy listening to loud music while driving to work or school? Does the sound system of your multimedia unit fail to satisfy your needs while play loud music? The Pioneer GMA3602 bridgeable amplifier will boost your experience for many reasons. With a peak power output of 400 watts, it is one of the most powerful products on this list. It also has a bridgeable system that boosts a load of single speakers via two channels. Therefore, while listening to loud music, it channels plenty of power to speakers, which boost output.

The Pioneer GMA3602 is a compact car amplifier that fits in most areas of cars. You can install it in the glove box or the back seat of your vehicle without cluttering space. It also has a durable design, which you can set up effortlessly in your car for the following reasons. First, its speaker level inputs (plug and use) are compatible with most OEM head units of cars. It also has oversized power terminals and in-built crossover (high pass) that splits highs and lows to boost sound clarity.

What We Like

In-built crossover (high pass)

Compact yet powerful (400W)

Oversized power terminals

Supports all OEM head units

Have speaker level inputs

Our Verdict

By separating high and low sounds via an in-built crossover, Pioneer GMA3602 boosts the sound quality of cars. Its dual-channel design (bridgeable) also raises the load of speakers, which boosts power handling at both low and high volume.

9. Boss Audio Systems PF1800 Phantom

Boss is a leading brand in the car spares niche with most of its third-party speakers ranked the best. It is also home to high-quality car amplifiers with the PF1800 Phantom considered the best for small cars. What makes this amplifier special? First, though compact, its 13×10 inch 4-channel design has a maximum power output of approximately 1400 watts. Thus, you can use it to boost the power output of all stock speakers plus a subwoofer without its system overheating. Moreover, via its in-built variable bass boost technology, the PF1800 Phantom from Boss enhances bass output as well.

The Class A / B Topology (full range) of this car amplifier has plug-in high and low-level inputs. Therefore, connecting it to stock head units in cars is easy. It also has a variable filter that lessens noise and a high impedance MOSFET power supply. With one, expect a boost in the sound quality of your car.

What We Like

MOSFET power supply

High/low-level inputs

Variable sound filter

Powerful design (1400w)

Space-saving design

Our Verdict

The Boss Audio Systems PF1800 Phantom fits and works well in most cars with little effort from its users. It is easy to install. It also has a robust system (1400-watts) with a variable filter that streamlines sound output while listening to loud music.

8. Pyle PLA2200 2-Channel Bridgeable Mosfet Amplifier

While talking about car electronics, Pyle is often part of the conversation because of its quality. The Pyle PLA2200, for instance, is a robust class-AB car amplifier that for sedans, SUVs, and trucks. Its stylish and low profile design works well in tight spaces. It also has a durable design with easy-access ports that support most stock and third-part head units found in cars. Therefore, to get it to work, you do not have to splice wires or overhaul the music system of the vehicle. All you do is connect it to a power source and a head unit.

You will love the performance of the Pyle PLA2200 amplifier in your vehicle. Similar to the quality speakers that it has made over the years, its power output (1400w) is notable. It also has a versatile design with bridgeable outputs (two), a High-Low crossover network, and a Bass Boost control. Thus, by separating high and lows and boosting bass at the same time, this device improves the sound quality of cars significantly. It has both short circuit and overload protection for safety.

What We Like

Overload/short-circuit protection

In-built bass boost control

High-low crossover network

Two bridgeable outputs

Our Verdict

With Pyle PLA2200, you will enjoy crisp and bass-rich sound in your car while entertaining. Its long-lasting design has a crossover network that splits highs and lows to boost sound clarity and a bass boost control. You will enjoy using one.

7. Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D Prime

Are you shopping for a powerful car amplifier that will take up little space in your car? Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D is a recommended brand for sedans and SUVs. With this prime edition, for instance, expect a class-D single-channel vehicle amplifier with a power output of 1600 watts. It is also small (11×6.7×3-inches) and has a stylish black theme that is easy to conceal in cars. For a cleaner look, you can install it in the glove box or under the front passenger seat issue-free.

Have you spent money on a few amplifiers that overheated or short-circuited over time? Due to its quality design, these are non-issues for the Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D Prime. At full power, its metal heatsink dissipates heat well to keep its system running cool. It also has a heavy-duty chassis (metal) with terminals that do not melt nor short-circuit under a heavy load. Therefore, you can use it for hours every day issue-free.

What We Like

Inbuilt sound equalizer

Heavy-duty metal chassis

Short-circuit protected

Aesthetic black theme

Powerful system (1600w)

Our Verdict

Rockford Fosgate R1200-1D is a compact yet powerful car amplifier (1600 watts) with a stylish black theme. It looks good in cars. You will also love its longevity and good sound.

6. Rockville dB15 6000 Class D Amplifier

Class D car amplifiers such as the Rockville dB15 6000 lose less power with heat, which is beneficial in two ways. First, because wastage of power is minimal, they are gentle on car batteries. Compared to linear amplifiers, they also have less interference, which improves sound quality. Therefore, if you enjoy listening to music as your drive, do not hesitate to buy one. Its RMS power rating (3000 Watts at 2 ohms) matches that of expensive brands such as Hifonics. The fully adjustable octave crossover (12dB), subsonic filter (15Hz – 55Hz), and bass equalizer on offer enhances in sound’s quality further.

Because of its simplicity, setting up the Rockville dB15 6000 in cars is easy. All ports are plug-and-use. Its durable and low profile design works well in most cars. Finally, because of its safety rating, the risk of it overheating, bursting in flames, and ruining your car is slim. Thus, it is ideal for luxury cars too.

What We Like

Remote subwoofer control

IC-controlled circuitry (safe)

Under-voltage protection

Adjustable bass equalizer

Our Verdict

Rockville dB15 6000 is a famous class D amplifier that excels in terms of performance and safety. The risk of it overheating or short-circuiting in cars is slim. Its parts are durable, while its in-built bass amplifier and subwoofer controls boost quality.

5. Planet Audio AC1500.1M ANARCHY

Does the low powered stereo in your car fail to satisfy your needs? Do not splash a lot of cash on a new head unit to attempt to solve the problem. Planet Audio AC1500.1M is a tried and tested remedy, which costs significantly less money as well. Its advanced class-AM design supports most types of head units. Moreover, even though compact, its powerful system (1500 watts at 2 ohms) satisfies the needs of most people. Whether you like loud or bass-rich sound, it will deliver.

The main intention of installing an amplifier in a car is to improve sound output and quality. Although most brands excel at this, Planet Audio AC1500.1M delivers better results for two reasons. First, the low pass crossover that bundles in its system separates high and low sounds and boosts each independently to improve quality. It also has Bass Boost and a sub-woofer control (remote) for optimizing its performance.

What We Like

Subwoofer control

Low pass crossover

Bass boost technology

Powerful system (1500w)

Advanced class-AM system

Our Verdict

Installing a Planet Audio AC1500.1M amplifier is one of the cheapest and effective ways of improving the sound quality of cars. Its robust design (1500 watts) features a crossover (low pass) and a bass booster that enhances the quality of sound.

4. Pioneer GM-D8601 Class D Mono Amplifier

Measuring just 13x11x5inches, Pioneer GM-D8601 is a small class D amplifier (mono) that sounds great. Therefore, if you are upgrading a car’s sound system, here are a few benefits of buying one. First, because it is 50% smaller than leading brands, installing it in cars is easy. Whether you own a small sedan or an SUV that you drive to work every day, concealing it is easy. Power output is around 1600 watts, while the bass booster and low pass filter it comes with boost sound quality. If needed, you can adjust both settings to get custom results.

The temperature of cars can get very hot when parked in the sun. Moreover, during long trips, people listen to music for many hours, which strains multimedia systems to the core. The class D Pioneer GM-D8601 mono amplifier can withstand such as level of abuse without issues. Its metal chassis has a durable and heat-resistant design. It also has an upgraded heat sink, which dissipates heat well to stop it overheating.

What We Like

Upgraded heat sink

Powerful mono amplifier

Heavy-duty metal chassis

50% smaller than most brands

Our Verdict

Due to its small size, Pioneer GM-D8601 is an excellent car subwoofer for people with subcompact cars. However, due to its power and ability to streamline sound output, it works well in sedans and SUVs as well. All parts are durable and work together to produce quality sound without overheating.

3. Rockford Fosgate R500X1D Prime

To some people, simplicity is a sign of weakness while buying battery chargers and or car amplifiers. However, this is not always the case with trusted brands such as Rockford Fosgate R500X1D. Measuring 8.5×6.8×2-inch, it is smaller than the Pioneer GM-D8601 model and therefore works well in tight quarters. Its quality is admirable, though. The aluminium (rugged) used to make its shell is not only durable but also dissipates heat efficiently. Therefore, while in use for long, you do not have to worry about it overheating and setting your car on fire. Rockford also works optimally for hours, which is good.

The power output of the Rockford Fosgate R500X1D prime is about 500-watts at 2 ohms, which is good. Devoid of the car stereo that you have in place; therefore, you can set it up and use it for hours issue-free. It is also gentle on batteries and boosts both the clarity and loudness of sound in cars.

What We Like

Loud and clear system

Good thermal protection

Over-current protection

Durable aluminium heatsink

Low profile (8.5×6.8×2-inch)

Our Verdict

Do you want a compact car amplifier that will not overheat after hours of use? Rockford Fosgate R500X1D uses only 8.5 x 6.8 x 2-inches of space. However, you will like its powerful system (500 watts) and the heat resistant aluminum used to make it.

2. BOSS Audio AR1500M Monoblock Car Amplifier

Boss, like Pile and Pioneer, has released several high-quality car amplifiers for some time now. BOSS Audio AR1500M, for instance, is a popular monoblock mode that measures 10.3 x 6.5 x 2.6 inches. It is also durable and has a powerful system (1500 watts) that generates clear and immersive sound. If the stock system of your car has failed to satisfy your need on the road, use this amplifier. Its well-engineered plug-and use-design supports all stock and third-party head units in cars.

All-in-one amplifiers that are popular online cost people a fortune. Fortunately, BOSS Audio AR1500M is one of them. For a few dollars, you get a feature-rich amplifier with a low pass crossover that boosts sound output. By separating the high and lows, you can play types of music at low and high volume without distortion. It also boosts bass output via an in-built controller that you can customize to satisfy your needs.

What We Like

Cost-effective amplifier

Low/no sound distortion

Has a low-pass crossover

Plug and use connections

Low and high-level inputs

Our Verdict

BOSS Audio AR1500M is a 1500-watt deep bass amplifier with a low pass crossover. If you have the distorted and or plain sound your radio or music player generates, it is one of the best remedies. Its longevity and ease of use appeal to most people.

1. BOSS AUDIO R1100M Riot

BOSS AUDIO R1100M Riot is a powerful monoblock car amplifier with a two-channel brushed finished design. The metal case is durable, shock-absorbing, and has an aesthetic finish (black) that blends well in cars. Power output is around 1100 watts, while its Bass Boost controllers maximize bass output while in use. If you enjoy Rock or Hip Hop music, therefore, forget about the sharp and irritant sound your car generates. With BOSS AUDIO R1100M, expect clear highs and thumping bass.

In addition to the in-built low-pass crossover in this device, you will like its high safety rating. Like most models on our list, it has a thick metal heatsink that dissipates heat well. Its circuit also has overheat and short circuit protection, which boost its safety in motor vehicles further. Buy one worry-free.

What We Like

Short circuit protection

Efficient heatsink (metal)

Powerful system (1100w)

Excellent bass output

Our Verdict

BOSS AUDIO R1100M Riot does not overheat nor short-circuits as quickly as some cheap models do. Its power and ability to withstand day-to-day abuse well also appeal to music lovers.

How to Choose Best Car Amplifiers

Features

Items such as jump starters and car amplifiers enhance the performance and or safety of cars outdoors. While choosing one, however, opt for a product that will benefit you for as long as you will own the car. Therefore, it is a good practice to check the features of your amplifier of choice before you empty your wallet on it. Does it have a variable input control? Such amplifiers can match their input to the signal output of head units automatically, which boosts sound quality. Low pass filters/crossovers and sound controllers for subwoofers or bass are also crucial, especially if you enjoy loud music. Crossovers and filters give you control over the frequencies that your amplifier works, while bass boosters improve bass output.

Longevity

No matter the amount of money that you intend to pay for a car amplifier, make sure it is durable. A product that tends to overheat while in use, for instance, will ley you down over the years. Worst still, it can damage your car or set it on fire while in use for long. To avoid such issued, but a product with a heavy-duty chassis (preferably aluminum). It should also have an efficient heat sink and short circuit protection.

Conclusion: Improving the sound output of a car is as easy as installing one of the ten amplifiers reviewed herein. These durable and universal items support most brands or types of head units. They are easy to set up and boost sound quality significantly.